We’ve all been there—holding up a fresh pair of jeans or a crisp new shirt, eager to wear it right away. But then someone (usually Mom or your MIL) says, “You better wash that before you wear it!” At first, it might sound like old-fashioned advice, but is there real wisdom behind it? Let’s break it down and find out if this common warning is worth following.
Why You Might Want to Wash New Clothes First
Before you roll your eyes and toss that shirt on, let’s talk about the legit reasons washing new clothes actually makes sense. Spoiler: it’s not just about being “clean.”
New Clothes Carry Chemicals
That “new clothes smell” is often a result of chemical treatments. Manufacturers use dyes, formaldehyde, and other finishing agents to make fabrics look crisp and last longer. While these chemicals help clothes survive the journey from factory to store to closet, they can also irritate your skin. A simple wash can rinse out a lot of these substances and make your clothes safer to wear.
Sensitive Skin? You’ll Want to Wash First
If you’ve ever slipped into a new shirt and ended up scratching like crazy, it’s probably not just your imagination. People with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies are more likely to react to chemical residue on unwashed clothes. Even if you’ve never had issues before, your skin might thank you for being cautious.
Clothes Meet a Lot of Hands Before You Do
Your new outfit isn’t as untouched as it looks. Between factory workers, retail employees, and fellow shoppers trying it on, that fabric has had plenty of contact. You never really know who’s touched it—or what they were carrying. A quick wash acts as your personal reset button before the clothing hits your skin.
Video : Do You Wash Your New Clothes Before Wearing? You’d Better Start…
It Just Feels Better
Ever put on a new shirt that felt kind of stiff or scratchy? Washing it first helps soften the fabric and improve comfort. This is especially true for jeans, linens, and other structured materials that loosen up with a little TLC.
When It Might Be Okay to Skip the Wash
To be fair, there are times when not washing new clothes isn’t the end of the world. Here’s when you might let it slide (just this once).
You’re in a Rush
Let’s say you’ve got a last-minute party or job interview, and that new outfit is your only option. We’ve all had moments where convenience wins. Just make sure the clothing doesn’t feel overly treated or smell strong—those are red flags.
Trying to Be More Eco-Friendly
Every wash uses water and energy. If you’re making an effort to be more environmentally conscious, it might feel wasteful to wash something that doesn’t absolutely need it. You can always check the item for any odors or residues first, then decide.
You Want to Keep Special Finishes Intact
Some clothes come with coatings that make them wrinkle-resistant, stain-repellent, or water-resistant. Washing too soon might strip those finishes away. If you want to preserve them, check the label or even consider wearing the garment once for a short time before tossing it in the wash.
Washing Might Fade Important Labels
Let’s face it, clothing labels are tiny and often printed with ink that disappears after a couple of washes. If you need to keep those care instructions readable (especially for delicate fabrics), it might be worth holding off on that first wash.
It Can Be a Cultural Habit Too
In some cultures, washing new clothes before wearing them is part of tradition. Whether for hygiene, spiritual cleanliness, or just family habits, this practice often comes with good intentions. If someone like your MIL insists you wash first, it’s likely coming from a place of care and shared experience.
How to Wash New Clothes Without Ruining Them
Okay, so let’s say you’re on board with washing first—but you don’t want to mess up your brand-new gear. Here are a few quick tips:
- Wash bright or dark colors separately the first time to prevent color bleeding.
- Use cold water for delicate or unknown fabrics.
- Turn clothes inside out to reduce fading and protect prints or embellishments.
- Use a gentle cycle and mild detergent if you’re worried about damaging the fabric.
- For items that are especially stiff or coated, try soaking in water with a little vinegar before washing.
Video : How To Hand-Wash Clothes (The Right Way) | Basics
So… Is Your MIL Right?
Honestly? Yeah, she kind of is. Washing new clothes before you wear them might seem unnecessary, but there are real reasons to do it—from removing chemicals to protecting your skin and softening the fabric. Sure, there are times when skipping it won’t hurt, but overall, giving your clothes a quick rinse is a small step that can save you from potential discomfort or worse.
So the next time your MIL gives you the “wash it first” speech, maybe just nod and thank her. She’s not being dramatic—she’s just got the experience (and the laundry logic) to back it up.
Now, what about you? Are you Team Wash or Team Wear It Now? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s settle this once and for all.
